Morni Hills Tourism

Morni is a village and tourist attraction in the Morni Hills at the height of 1,267 metres (4,157 ft) in the Panchkula district of the Indian state of Haryana. It is located around 45 kilometres (28 mi) from Chandigarh, 35 kilometres (22 mi) from Panchkula city and is known for its Himalayan views, flora, and lakes. The name of Morni is believed to derive from a queen who once ruled the area.
At an elevation of 3,600 feet above sea level, Morni has a fascinating range of flora and fauna. Pines crown the hilltops and trees like neem, oak, pipal, jamun, amaltas and jacaranda cover the slopes. When the flowering trees blossom, the hillsides are awash with colour, presenting a delightful sight. The trees were introduced in the hills as an experimental venture, even though the climate was not really cold enough for the trees to flourish. As a result, pine of the area has small cones. Morni is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers with its teeming population of birds like quails, sand grouse and doves as well as animals like jackals, hyenas, sambhars and even a jungle cat or two.
Myth, mystery and history also have a place in Morni's attractions. There are two large lakes or tals, which seem to be interconnected mysteriously even though they are separated by a hillock, the water level in both the tals always remains the same. Locals consider the lake auspicious and gather here on ceremonial occasions. A small temple on the banks contains a Trimurti (the Hindu Trinity), which dates back to the 12th century AD. The remains of an old fort speak of the history of the place. Morni offers many interesting trekking options. One can trek to the two tals and the old fort and for the more adventurous, there are treks to the bank of the river Ghaggar, which flows past Morni.